Noise and Hearing Loss Prevention

What is Work-Related Hearing Loss?

Work-related hearing loss continues to be a critical workplace safety and health issue. The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) and the occupational safety and health community named hearing loss one of the 21 priority areas for research in the next century. Noise-induced hearing loss is 100 percent preventable but once acquired, hearing loss is permanent and irreversible. Therefore, prevention measures must be taken by employers and workers to ensure the protection of workers' hearing.

Fact Sheet: Work Related Hearing Loss
DHHS (NIOSH) Publication No. 2001-103
This fact sheet provides information on the magnitude and cost of work-related hearing loss.

Noise Meter

Noise Meter (Flash Version (1.4 MB)
Note: You must have the Flash plug-in installed on your machine to view the Noise Meter. If you do not have this plug-in, download the Flash plug-in. Otherwise, view the html version.

 

 

How do I choose the right hearing protection?

Choosing the right hearing protector for you depends upon many factors.

What are Noise Reduction Ratings (NRR)?
You've seen these ratings on hearing protectors, but what do they actually mean?
External Link: http://www.freehearingtest.com/nrr.shtml

 

Roll, Pull and Hold - How to wear soft foam earplugs

For a good fit, use the roll, pull and hold method. Developed by NIOSH Mining Safety and Health Research, this three step method for inserting soft foam earplugs into your ears can help you get the best protection against excessive noise exposure. The method is also demonstrated through RealMedia Video.

 

Noise and Hearing Loss Fact Sheets

Noise Induced Hearing Loss - Attitudes and Behaviors of U.S. Adults
Provides data from a survey concerning noise induced hearing loss.

Safeworker: A Hearing Loss Prevention Guide "Sound Advice: Protect Your Ears In Noisy Environments"

Common Hearing Loss
Prevention Terms

Preventing Occupational Hearing Loss - A Practical Guide: Appendix F - Terms Common to Hearing Loss Prevention
DHHS (NIOSH) Publication No. 96-110
Provides definitions for many hearing loss terms in as non-technical fashion as possible.

Interactive Tools on Hearing Loss

Have you ever tested your hearing?
Try this free online hearing test
External Link: www.freehearingtest.com

Save Your Hearing - An Interactive Multimedia Presentation (.exe file 256 MB)
Download and install this interactive tool that explains the risks of hearing loss in the workplace, how the ear works, and proper use of hearing protection.